Story

A primary goal of this project was to modernize the existing school buildings while preserving the original integrity of the two 1920s structures. While the project began in 2022, the masonry restoration scope did not start until early 2024, less than 5 months before the target completion date. Despite the tight timeline, several rounds of mock-ups and comprehensive testing to establish suitable cleaning procedures and material matches were performed and proved critical to meeting client expectations and time goals for the site. Working “inside-out,” the restoration began at the elevations to be enclosed by the new skylight. Then, it moved around both buildings simultaneously, coordinating with ongoing site work, finishes, and landscaping. This effort took meticulous coordination. The masonry restoration scope consisted of comprehensive limestone cleaning, including removing deep-set copper stains, carbon crust, and layers of graffiti; stone and brick repointing; stone crack injections; stone dutchman repairs; and toothed brick infill work at most windows. The commitment to meeting historic preservation standards was unwavering. Finding a suitable brick match in such a short time was challenging, so Genco opted to harvest bricks from various locations where walls were to be demolished or repurposed, ensuring that the new elements seamlessly blended with the old. The team carefully ensured suitable repairs were completed, but blemishes that helped define its historic identity remained. Therefore, great attention was paid to maintaining the appearance of the 100 year-old building, ensuring that the original character was preserved. Genco emphasized restoring defining features like the limestone portico entrances, a process that involved careful cleaning, repointing, and resetting while allowing the age of the building to show through simultaneously.